2026 Minneapolis Red, White and BOOM

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board hosts Red, White and Boom!, the city’s largest Independence Day event, on Saturday, July 4, 2026! This year’s celebration features an all-day lineup of fun, starting at 8 am and culminating in fireworks at 10 pm.
Festivities will take place at Water Works and along West River Parkway.
Event Schedule:
8 am – Run the Parks 5K & 2K Walk
Kick things off along the Mississippi Riverfront with a scenic run or walk.
9 am – Join Basecamp Fitness an all-levels workout that combines strength training and full-body conditioning.
10 am – Yoga with Bouldering Project
Ease into the day with a free outdoor class in Water Works Park
Food, Games & Midday Fun
11 am – Food Trucks Open
12+ trucks serving all day along the riverfront – come hungry.
Noon-2 pm – Trivia with The Bar Exam (Water Works steps)
Test your knowledge with a view of the river.
Dance and Performance (at Water Works Park)
2:30-3:30 pm – Line Dance with Deena
4-5 pm – SOUL Ballroom: Classic American Dance
5:30-6:30 pm – MNKPopConnect Random Dance
7:30 pm – Unicorn Art Circus Aerial Performance
From partner dancing to high-flying aerials, the afternoon brings energy across the park.
Live Music
8-10 pm – Sawyer’s Dream (Americana Rock)
Settle in at Mill Ruins Park for live music leading into the night.
Food Trucks
Food trucks will be located along West River Parkway near Water Works Park, with additional options on the east riverfront near Main Street.
Lineup includes:
TOP DOG – Hot dogs, Polish sausage, Italian & beef sandwiches, fries, soda, and water
B-Lo Zero Sno Cones & Minnie Donuts – Sno cones and mini donuts
MN Nice Cream – Soft serve ice cream, ice cream sandwiches, floats, and more
Kosharina Egyptian Cuisine – Koshari bowls, shish kabobs, mango juice, and hibiscus tea
I & E Treats – Wagyu smash burgers, crunch rolls, croissant burgers, fries, and peach lemonade
Schroeder Concessions (2 locations) – Corn dogs, cheese curds, burgers, curly fries, and cold drinks
Fair Faves – Corn dogs, mini donuts, chicken strips, pork on a stick
ThaiBoat 89 – Egg rolls, wontons, pad Thai, and rice bowls
Eggroll Queen – Jumbo egg rolls, mini egg rolls, and dessert egg rolls
MORE DETAILS
Road Closures: West River Parkway will be closed from 11th Ave South to 4th Ave North beginning at 10 am. Roads will reopen after pedestrian traffic clears (estimated 11 pm).
Plan Ahead: This is one of the busiest days in Downtown Minneapolis. Parking is limited—consider biking, walking, or taking transit.
Food & Beverage Sales: All food and beverage sales end at 9:45 pm.
Seating: Limited seating is available. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy the riverfront.
Weather: Events take place rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. Follow event updates for any changes.
Pets: Leashed dogs are welcome but should be kept clear of dense crowds and food lines.